Gabon Suspends National Team and Bans Key Players After Africa Cup Exit

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang holds the record for Gabon’s all-time leading scorer with 40 goals.

In a significant response to the national team’s poor performance in the Africa Cup of Nations, Gabon’s government has suspended the team, banned striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and relieved coach Thierry Mouyouma of his duties. These announcements were made by Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula following Gabon’s 3-2 defeat to the Ivory Coast on December 31.

Gabon concluded their tournament experience at the bottom of their group in Morocco, having previously suffered defeats to Cameroon and Mozambique. Minister Mamboula described these performances as “disgraceful,” stating, “Given the Panthers’ disgraceful performance at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dissolve the coaching staff, suspend the national team until further notice, and exclude players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.”

Despite their elimination being confirmed prior to the match against the Ivory Coast, Gabon witnessed a troubling collapse after initially leading by two goals in Marrakech.

Aubameyang, who has previously played for Arsenal and Chelsea, did not participate in the final group game as he returned to Marseille for treatment on a thigh injury. He remarked, “I think the team’s problems are much deeper than the individual I am.”

Thierry Mouyouma had been at the helm of the national team for just over two years. Historically, African governments have often disbanded national teams following disappointing outcomes, although such actions have become less common since FIFA implemented stricter regulations regarding government interference in football.